Prior to inserting your nightguard be sure to brush and floss your teeth. Do not eat or drink after or you could hold bacteria/debris against your teeth creating a risk for cavities to develop. In the morning you can rinse your guard or wash it with hand soap using cold or lukewarm water. Do not wash or submerge in hot water as that will cause your guard to distort. It is ok to use retainer/denture cleaner occasionally on your guard, following instructions on the package. Please do not scrub it with toothpaste and it may cause it to scratch which will lead to staining. After cleaning your guard be sure to keep it in the vented case provided and keep it away from pets (especially dogs).
It may take several nights to get used to wearing your new nightguard. It is not uncommon to wake up and find it no longer in your mouth during the first week. Continuing to wear the guard will allow your body to adapt to it. If at any time you find your jaw sore in the morning while wearing the guard please call and we’ll be happy to evaluate the guard and adjust it as needed.
It is normal for your guard to discolor with time/wear. Bacteria in your mouth will cause staining which may show up as a variety of colors. Your guard will need to be replaced if it cracks, if you wear through it, if it walks away, or if you need to have extensive additional work completed. Feel free to bring your nightguard to your visits to have it evaluated.